Podcast
Dive Bar Music Club
Hosted by Sloane Spencer · EN
Dive Bar Music Club: low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.
Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, your new favorite monthly hangout where deep music knowledge meets dive bar vibes. Each episode, a rotating cast of indie music lifers (record store owners, radio hosts, touring musicians, venue bookers, photographers, and more) grab a drink, hop online, and swap notes on the three albums they can’t stop spinning.
It’s not a review show; it’s a conversation. A cozy, no-gatekeeping zone for the kind of people who make playlists for every mood, still buy records, and love to discover that one incredible band hiding in the liner notes. We’re heavy on new releases, but old favorites, hidden gems, and "how did I miss this?" moments are always on the table.
Whether you work in music, live for your local scene, or just want cool friends to talk tunes with, Dive Bar Music Club is your invitation to pull up a stool, pour a drink, and nerd out. No VIP pass required.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Albino Skunk Music Festival with King Margo and Aaron Lee Tasjan
2w ago00:37:01Tap to summarizeFrom backstage conversations to festival magic, Sloane Spencer dives headfirst into Albino Skunk Music Festival, a music fan's family reunion. While this marks the final spring edition of the beloved festival, the fall music weekends continue. Celebrate reinvention, community, and the evolving sound of Americana and roots music.This episode spotlights both legendary festival staples and exciting new voices, including breakout duo King Margo, who join Sloane backstage to talk about creative growth, finding their sound, and the thrill of releasing fresh music into the world. Then, singer-songwriter Aaron Lee Tasjan opens up about the highs surrounding his latest album and the personal challenges shaping his journey through grief and sobriety, offering equal parts wisdom, honesty, and heart.Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and spend some time where the songs are loud, the stories run deep, and music feels like home.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalMusicians, Bands, Venues, and Festivals MentionedAaron Lee TasjanKing Margo (Rachel Coats and Lucciana Costa)Albino Skunk Music FestivalAmericana FestBuddy MillerDarrell ScottDave JacquesDrivin N CryinGabe LeeHayley WilliamsJason EadyJen GundermanJeff SipeJimmy BowlandJohn FullbrightJohn PrineJustin AmaralKevn KinneyKim RicheyLarkin PoeMargaret GlaspyMax AbramsProcol HarumRoger Alan NicholsSheryl CrowSiriusXM Outlaw CountrySteve DawsonSturgill SimpsonSusan WernerThe MavericksThe WallflowersTodd SniderTom PettyVan DarienWarren ZanesChapters00:20 - Sloane Spencer: The Final Spring Edition of Skunk Fest01:16 - King Margo: Exploring New Sounds12:20 - Music and Inspiration: The Creative Process19:53 - Aaron Lee Tasjan: Navigating Grief and Creativity29:04 - The Journey of 'Science Friction'Recommended If You LikeAlbino Skunk Music Festival, Dive Bar Music Club podcast, Sloane Spencer, King Margo, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Americana music podcast, roots music festival, bluegrass music festival, indie music podcast, South Carolina music festival, live music interviews, backstage artist interview, Americana artists, folk music podcast, Red Dirt music, Texas country music, Jason Eady, Gabe Lee, Darrell Scott, Jeff Sipe, Nashville musicians, independent music artists, women in Americana music, King Margo new music, Waters Rise album, Game Over single, Tinfoil Profiteers, Roger Alan Nichols, Larkin Poe producer, music discovery podcast, singer songwriter interview, Aaron Lee Tasjan Get Over It Underdog, Science Friction song, SiriusXM Outlaw Country, independent musicians, touring musicians, music festival culture, live music community, East Nashville music scene, Americana Fest, music merch culture, indie record release, podcast for music nerds, low key high taste happy hour, festival backstage conversations, roots rock artists, folk Americana scene, Southern music podcast, emerging Americana artists, music storytelling podcast, dive bar music club, music festival, Albino Skunk Music Fest, South Carolina music festivals, Darrell Scott, King Margot, Jason Eady, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Americana music, music discovery, indie music, music interviews, festival experiences, songwriting process, artist collaborations, music promotion, live music, female musicians, music production, pre-order albumSupport to Tip Jar
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Sad Songs Happy Hour, That Bar Is in Hell, Mental Health, and Disabled Joy
May 500:56:21Tap to summarizeAmanda Miles and Chad Cochran bring sonically disparate, but thematically similar, music to Dive Bar Music Club. We end up with some deep conversation about taking care of our mental health and how that impacts the music community. The playlist moves through love, loss, and nostalgia. Amanda shares her latest Jason Isbell obsession, Chad leans into indie rock and some 90s throwbacks, and together we talk about how music becomes a lifeline during tough times. Amanda shares a bit about her progressive blindness, how it impacts her when going to see bands and venues lack accessibility, and teases an upcoming feature regarding her diagnosis in Bodies of Opinion.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple Music Tidal Bands and Musicians Featured in Episode 8Willow Avalon w/ Jason IsbellElla LangleyThe Afghan WhigsLuke Combs w/ Alison KraussPaul McCartneyArcwelderMental Health Resources If you need immediate support, call or text 988 in the USA for connection to a trained volunteer who can help.NAMINuci's SpaceYour state occupational health or vocational rehabilitation officeMusic Health AllianceMusiCaresSims FoundationHAAM (Health Alliance for Austin Musicians)The RegularsChad CochranAmanda MilesSloane SpencerMusicians, Venues, Events, and Themes Referenced in This EpisodeAlan JacksonAppalachian State UniversityAthensAtlantaBodies of OpinionBrian Lee BrownBirminghamBowling GreenChicagoCoca-Cola AmphitheaterDave GrohlDavid ByrneFaith HillGarth BrooksJack WhiteJim WhiteLaughing HyenasLive NationLinda RonstadtLuaka BopMadison Square GardenMartina McBrideMinneapolisMiranda LambertNational Independent Venue Association (NIVA)Nelsonville Music FestivalNew Disabled SouthOhioOkemahPatrick KeelerRaconteursRed Rocks AmphitheatreReba McEntireRingo StarrRyman AuditoriumSteve AlbiniTabernacleTedeschi Trucks BandThem Crooked VulturesTouch and Go RecordsTopher BrownTyler ChildersVince GillWhite StripesWoody Guthrie Folk FestivalWynonna JuddRecommended If You Likedive bar music club, music podcast, 90s alt rock, emerging songwriters, Jason Isbell, Luke Combs, Alison Krauss, Ella Langley, mental health and music, concert photography, music festivals, country music scene, music recommendations, indie music, music accessibility, songwriter interviews, music playlists, music discussions, Americana music, music industry insights, Dive Bar Music Club podcast, music podcast 2026, indie music discussion, 90s alt rock nostalgia, indie rock playlist, Americana music podcast, country music deep dive, Jason Isbell fans, Willow Avalon Cardinal Sin, Luke Combs Alison Krauss duet, Ella Langley cover songs, Toby Keith cover reinterpretation, music and mental health, music as therapy, emotional connection to music, nostalgic music themes, love and loss songs, sad music playlist, songwriting and storytelling, emerging artists 2025, indie folk and synth folk, Icelandic folk music, live music culture, concert photography, music festivals 2026, backstage photography, touring musicians life, TikTok music discovery, viral music trends, album recommendations podcast, Paul McCartney new music, Afghan Whigs comeback, Arc Welder band, college rock revival, 90s music revival, alternative rock discussion, music community podcast, disabled joy and music, accessibility in live music venues, mental health in music industry, musicians mental health advocacy, music and identity, podcast music recommendations, discovering new artists, genre-blending playlists, music nerd culture
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Record Store Day, Public Radio, and Music Loose Associations
Apr 2000:51:32Tap to summarizeWe’re big fans of public radio and festivals for music discovery. Charles Hale and Nelson Gullett had a small world radio-meets-real-life Big Ears connection. Public radio keeps new music alive and thriving, even as the federal government slashed budgets and extremist subcultures try to wield power over art.Driver 8 Records gears up for Record Store Day and launches a vinyl record club. Sloane Spencer continues to float her musical loose associations, this time sharing, "If Randy Newman, Leon Russell, and Levon Helm hung out listening to the Beatles, this might be the song they wrote." So pour yourself something nice, slide into the booth, and get ready for a mix of good stories and the kind of musical rabbit holes you’ll be glad you fell into.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 7FleaJesse Ed DavisKathleen EdwardsKruangbinLeon BridgesThe MontvalesNeko CaseSilver SkylarksYagodySupport Your Local Public Radio StationWDVX KRFCRecord Store Day & Driver 8 Records' Record ClubDriver 8 RecordsThe RegularsNelson GullettCharles HaleSloane SpencerMusicians, Festivals, Venues, and Events Mentioned in this EpisodeAlbert KingAmelia DayAnna ButtersAngine de PoitrineArlo GuthrieBarley's KnoxvilleBlack PumasBlind Boys of AlabamaBloodshot BillBob DylanBrennan WedlBugs BunnyButch HancockCarolina Chocolate DropsCharles MingusCharlie SniderChris StapletonChris ThileChristopher Paul StellingColin CrippsDriver 8 RecordsDr. JohnDuane AllmanGrant AldenGrateful DeadGwenifer RaymondHaley HeynderickxInternational AnthemJason IsbellJeff ParkerJimmy Dale GilmoreJohn LennonKaoru WatanabeKasey MusgravesKatie CrutchfieldKen PomeroyLeon RussellLevon HelmLucinda WilliamsMarket Square, Knoxville, TNMichael StipeMJ LendermanNick CaveNo DepressionNonesuch RecordsPeter BuckR.E.M.Randy NewmanRed Hot Chili PeppersRichard ThompsonSmoking Dave and the Primo DopesSturgill SimpsonTaj MahalThe BeatlesThe SteelDriversTodd SniderTom PettyThom YorkeTortoiseBig Ears FestivalThirty TigersTyler ChildersWaxahatcheeWDVXWREKKRFCWu FeiRecommended If You Likedive bar music club podcast, music discovery podcast, public radio music, indie music podcast, alternative rock discussion, 90s alt rock fans, eclectic music playlist, underground music scene, college radio influence, music nerd community, songwriter interviews podcast, record store culture, vinyl collecting community, record store day events, independent record stores, emerging artists spotlight, live music festivals USA, Big Ears Festival Knoxville, Americana music scene, folk and bluegrass artists, experimental music performances, Ukrainian folk band modern, jazz fusion discussion, Flea trumpet album, avant garde jazz artists, Kathleen Edwards music, Americana singer songwriter, Waxahatchee influence, indie folk duos, music recommendations podcast, album deep dives, music storytelling songs, public radio funding importance, listener supported radio, music community building, local music scenes USA, Texas indie soul music, Khruangbin style vibes, Leon Bridges collaboration, new music discovery 2026, public radio music discovery, Dive Bar Music Club, 90s alt rock, Knoxville music festival, Big Ears Festival, emerging touring songwriters, eclectic music, music playlists, public radio funding, local music scene, music obsession, record store culture, independent radio stations, music community, music recommendations, exploration of new music, artist interviews, vinyl records, music nerds, music events
Transcribe →Protest Folk to Trap Beats to Bedroom Pop and WTF Taylor?
Apr 500:55:17Tap to summarizeThis week on Dive Bar Music Club, we roll straight into our ever-evolving music discovery, joined by: Caitlin Cary, Amanda Miles, Kim Ware, Sloane Spencer, and Rachel Cholst.We kick things off with a surprise protest song from Caitlin, collaborating with Chris Stamey, on a track sharing the words on the Statue of Liberty. From there, the conversation opens up into a mixtape of current obsessions, weaving from the dreamy introspection of Leith Ross to the throwback swagger of T.I. Along the way, there’s laughter, a little friendly debate about "super double deluxe" reissues (we're rolling our eyes at you, Taylor), and plenty of real talk about why music hits so deeply. So pour yourself something good, pull up a chair, and join us for a lively exchange of songs, stories, and the shared thrill of finding your next favorite song.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 6Courtney BarnettDuke EllingtonIdaWill JohnsonJohnny Blue Skies/Sturgill Simpson (vinyl/CD only)Jon LindsayKendra MorrisRatboysLeith RossT.I.The RegularsCaitlin CaryRachel CholstAmanda MilesSloane SpencerKim WareMusicians, Photographers, and Other Cool People and Places MentionedBenji HughesBoy GoldenBrian WrightChris StameyJason IsbellJason MolinaKurt VileLudacrisMagnolia Electric CompanyNew OrderNorth Carolina Music Love ArmyOutKastPete SeegerWren CarpenterTaylor SwiftThe ReplacementsTom Petty and the HeartbreakersWidespread PanicYum Yum TreeRecommended If You Likedive bar music club, 90s alt rock, music podcast, emerging songwriters, cult band favorites, music playlists, protest music, singer-songwriter interviews, indie music recommendations, new music discovery, vinyl records, comfort music, live music discussions, music industry insights, alternative music culture, music nerds, music collaborations, music photography, zine culture, music trends
Transcribe →Welcome to the Amen Corner, R.E.M. Megafans, and Are Microtonal Instrumentals Even Better with a Gummy?
Mar 2000:51:01Tap to summarizeSummaryGrab a stool at the Dive Bar Music Club, where host Sloane Spencer and Regulars Charles Hale and Nelson Gullett share their low-key, high-taste music selections. This week’s happy hour for music nerds dives deep into the miracle of the Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy's Life's Rich Pageant R.E.M. tour, where even Bobcat Goldthwait's opening set brought joy, much to their surprise. Between Charles’s treasure trove of new vinyl finds, ranging from the haunting Magnolia and Johnson Electric Co. 7" to the garage-rock grit of the Flamin' Groovies, and Nelson’s essential preview of the Big Ears Festival featuring lap-style guitar creative Yasmin Williams, the episode is a masterclass in crate-digging. It’s a passionate, defense of the weird, the instrumental, and the feel-good oldies that make being a music obsessive worth the effort.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 5Angine de PoitrineBeulahThe CureCure for ParanoiaFlamin' GrooviesGwenifer RaymondHaley Heynderickx and Max Garcia ConoverMagnolia & Johnson Electric Co.Yasmin Williams ft Dom FlemonsVenues and Festivals MentionedThe 40 Watt Club, Athens, GABig Ears Festival, Knoxville, TNBijou Theatre, Knoxville, TNBonnaroo, Manchester, TNCat’s Cradle, Carrboro, NCTennessee Theatre, Knoxville, TNThe RegularsNelson GullettCharles HaleSloane SpencerMusicians, Photographers, and Other Cool People and Places MentionedAdam SmithAlvin Youngblood HartAmerican AquariumAmethyst KiahApples in StereoArooj AftabBackslidersBen NicholsBeulahBilly Allen and the PolliesBlind Boys of AlabamaThe Carolina Chocolate DropsCharles Wesley GodwinChocolate GeniusChris PorterChris ThileDarrell ScottThe Devil Makes ThreeThe GlandsMJ LendermanJason MolinaJason NarducyJay FarrarJim DickinsonJim JamesJohn ZornJohnny Blue Skies (Sturgill Simpson)Ken PomeroyLuther DickinsonMadison CunninghamMagnolia Electric Co.Marc RibotMichael ShannonMolina and JohnsonNels ClineNeutral Milk HotelNew MultitudesNirvanaPatti SmithR.E.M.Reggie WattsSam AmidonScott AvettSturgill SimpsonSun Ra ArkestraSunny WarTatiana HargreavesThe 400 Unit<...
Transcribe →We Love a Good Cemetery, Mispronouncing Swedish Names, and Biker Bars in a Good Way
Mar 500:48:57Tap to summarizeSummaryThis week, Amanda Miles, Sloane Spencer, and Kim Ware settle in for a deeper conversation about the music getting us through the mess of current American politics. We start by talking about the long history of music and creativity in protest movements, sparked by Ann Powers’ article about where all the protest songs have gone lately, and whether they’ve actually disappeared or just taken new forms.From there, we trade the songs currently living on repeat in our headphones. A theme quickly emerges: comfort. The kind of music that steadies you when everything feels beyond us. Think the emotional pull of Jason Isbell, the warm, lived-in sound of Waxahatchee, and the storytelling power that artists like Tyler Childers and Courtney Marie Andrews bring to the table.Along the way we talk about that tricky balance in our listening habits right now, when you want music that lets you feel the anger, but also something that softens the edges of the day.Pour yourself something good, settle in, and join us for a thoughtful, easy-going conversation full of sharp observations, a few laughs, and plenty of appreciation for the songs helping us cope, reset, and stay connected.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 4Courtney Marie AndrewsAmanda BergmanTyler ChildersJason IsbellDina OgonWaxahatcheeVenues and Festivals MentionedFest, Gainesville, FLShoals Fest, Muscle Shoals, ALThe Cave, Chapel Hill, NCCoca Cola Amphitheater, Birmingham, ALNeighborhood Theatre, Charlotte, NCOrange Peel, Asheville, NCRadio Room, Greenville, SCRed Rocks, Morrison, COTribbles, Piedmont, SCThe RegularsAmanda MilesSloane SpencerKim WareMusicians & More Also Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Ann Powers article about protest musicHealing AppalachiaAmanda ShiresAngel OlsenDavid ChildersDillon FenceDrive-By TruckersJPhono1Michael Cera PalinMJ LendermanMartha Davis (The Motels)My Chemical RomanceRage Against the MachineRickie Lee JonesStereoLabTedeschi Trucks BandTift Merrittindie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast, , dive bar music club, 90s alt rock, emerging songwriters, indie americana music, protest music today, creativity in music, comfort music, vinyl records, music recommendations, Jason Isbell, Waxahachee, Tyler Childers, music playlists, live music experiences, female musicians, songwriting process, music festivals, music and mental health, southern roots music, music industry insights
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A Good Day for The Clash, The Ann Powers Litmus Test, and Just Like Our Drinks, We'll Take Our Country Neat
Feb 2000:59:37Tap to summarizeSummaryIt seems like it's a good time to play The Clash. Dive Bar Music Club is back and digging a little deeper this time. We’re diving into the crossroads of music and social awareness, sparked by the recent federal violence in Minneapolis. I’m Sloane Spencer, joined by Chad Cochran, the Nelson Gullett, and Charles Hale.A couple of us are slightly under the weather this week, but we're psyched to chat about what we're listening to lately.We’re still swapping our latest musical obsessions and what’s been living on our playlists, but today the conversation carries a little more weight. We’re talking about how music shows up when things get tense; how it pushes back, how it brings people together, and how artists turn frustration, grief, and defiance into something powerful and unifying. At the same time, we’re not forgetting what music also does best: giving us a breather, a release, a place to land when the world feels loud.So settle in with us for thoughtful, unfiltered, interesting music conversation.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 3Iron ChicAmelia DayThe MenzingersMon RovîaOff With Their HeadsKaren E. ReynoldsThe Third MindW8ing4UFOsVenues and Festivals MentionedAlbino Skunk Music Festival, Greer, SCBarley's, Knoxville, TNBig Ears Festival, Knoxville, TNBlue Plate Special, WDVX, Knoxville, TNThe Blue Room, Nashville, TNBubbapalooza, Atlanta, GAFirst Avenue, Minneapolis, MNFrank Brown Songwriting FestivalLake Street, Minneapolis, MNLittle 5 Points Festival, Atlanta, GANelsonville Music Festival, Nelsonville, OHStar Bar, Atlanta, GAThe Regulars in Episode 3Chad CochranNelson GullettCharles HaleSloane SpencerMusicians Also Mentioned13th Floor ElevatorsDave AlvinBad BunnyBetter Than EzraCarsie BlantonThe BlastersBoyGeniusBilly BraggPeter BuckCamper Van BeethovenAshley CappsThe Carter FamilyCounting CrowsChunklet (Henry Owings)The ClashAlice ColtraneCrackerJT Cure<a href="https://www.arresteddevelopmentmusic.com/" rel="...
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Shamelessly Tagging Becky Warren on IG, Porter Wagoner On Psychedelics, and Evidently This Is a Philly Rock Podcast
Feb 500:39:13Tap to summarizeSummaryThis week, we’re disappearing down some serious rabbit holes. From the casual Aussie swagger of Bel Air Lip Bombs to the psychedelic sway of Alex Chilton’s cover of “Rubber Room,” the episode is a love letter to overlooked tracks that quietly demand a place in your rotation. Charles Hale, Sloane Spencer, Rachel Cholst, and Kim Ware come together like a carefully sequenced mixtape, swapping stories about their latest musical fixations and music Venn diagrams that overlap way too much and not at all. Punk-leaning jazz that used to be in a duo with a noted blues musician, and a lot of tiny touchpoints connecting us to the music. So throw on your headphones, pour yourself a drink, and sink into the rich, unpredictable soundscape of the Dive Bar Music Club.Catch Our Tastemaker PlaylistsApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 2Alex Chilton (Big Star, The Box Tops)Audrey HobertBecky WarrenThe Belair Lip BombsFustGladieJohanna RoseMinus FiveValerie JuneVenues MentionedThe 40 Watt Club, Athens, GAThe Regulars in Episode 2Rachel CholstCharles HaleSloane SpencerKim WareMusicians Also MentionedAugusta Koch (Cayetana, Gladie)The Baseball ProjectBuffalo NicholsDan Auerbach (The Black Keys)Dolly PartonEmily Ray (Indigo Girls)FlorryGeeseGracie AbramsHurray for the Riff RaffIndigo GirlsJeff RosenstockLouis ArmstrongM. WardNickel and RoseNeko CasePeter BuckPorter WagonerR.E.M.ReplacementsScott McCaugheySelf EsteemSG GoodmanSteve WynnSun VoltTaylor SwiftYoung Fresh FellowsRecommended If You LikeDive Bar Music Club, 90s alt rock, emerging songwriters, indie rock playlists, music podcasts, female vocalists in rock, Australian indie bands, Bel Air Lip Bombs, Alex Chilton, Big Star, record collecting, Americana music, Southern indie rock, music industry discussions, Jeff Rosenstock, indie music scenes, underground music recommendations, vinyl records, music discovery, music and mental health, indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast, Automated TranscriptSpeaker A00:00:01.200 - 00:01:47.260Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs.Around our table, you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting.I a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music projects than we can count.We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen. Okay, that last one's probably me, Sloane Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Well, hey, y', all.It's Sloan Spencer, and we are back with another episode of Dive Bar Music Club. This time diving into a few new friends. We've got Charles Hale joining us today, Rachel Colst and Kim Ware.Hope you all had a chance to listen to those introductory bio episodes so you can get to know a little bit about them.And if you haven't had a chance to listen to any of our prior episodes, every time we have a show, we like to start it off with everyone sharing one of the three things they've been listening to lately. Now, because I get to be the ringleader of all the episodes, I'm going to sit this one out and just kind of act as cat wrangler.And I'm going to let our guests talk about the music that has been on their playlist lately. So let's dive in with a new friend, Kim Ware. Hey, Kim, what have you been listening to lately?Speaker B00:01:48.180 - 00:02:50.010So I have been listening to a lot of, like 20, 25 releases, right? And around the end of the year, I was trying to catch up on things that I was n...
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Built-In Ice Makers in Our Fridges, Adult Taylor Swift Parties, and Bar Coffee
Jan 2000:46:22Tap to summarizeSummarySlide into the booth for a relaxed hang chatting about great music with Rachel Cholst, Charles Hale, and Sloane Spencer about what’s been on repeat lately, swapping thoughts on everything from the infectious indie rock of Weakened Friends to the timeless soul of Mavis Staples. Along the way, they shine a light on artists like SG Goodman, Florry, and Fust, talking about how these musicians tell powerful stories through their songs. They chat about live shows versus records, contrasting Billy Allen + The Pollies with Bass Battery. You’ll also hear some fun tales from the record store world, including a Taylor Swift listening party that turned into joyful chaos with kids, friendship bracelets, and plenty of laughs. Pour yourself a drink, get comfortable, and enjoy the kind of music chat that feels like catching up with friends, and hopefully inspires your next favorite listen. Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.PlaylistApple MusicTidalBands Featured in Episode 1Bass BatteryBilly Allen + The PolliesFlorryFustSG GoodmanMavis StaplesWeakened Friends(We never got around to chatting about Lene Lovich and Marah, also on our lists.)Venues Mentioned40 Watt, Athens, GA9:30 Club, Washington, DCBowery Ballroom, NYCEddie's Attic, Decatur, GAThe Fillmore East, NYCThe Foundry, Athens, GANewport Folk Fest, Newport, RIThe RamKat, Winston-Salem, NCSony Hall, NYCStandard Deluxe, Waverly, ALSultan Room, Bushwick, Brooklyn, NYTurk's Inn, NYCThe Regulars in this EpisodeRachel Cholst (Adobe & Teardrops, Rainbow Rodeo)Charles Hale (Driver 8 Records, Ajax Diner Book Club on KRFC)Sloane Spencer (Sleep with Rock Stars, Country Fried Rock, Momma Runs an Ultra)Other MentionsNorwood CheekKatie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee)Drive-By TruckersMitch EasterPatty GriffinBuddy GuyEddie HintonPatterson HoodJanis JoplinRob LaddMJ LendermanLet's ActiveMandolin OrangeFrancie Medosch (Florry)MipsoBonnie RaittNathaniel RateliffLibby RodenboughDex Romweber DuoDexter RomweberSara RomweberThe Staples SingersTaylor SwiftDerek TrucksJeff TweedySpencer TweedyTownes Van ZandtTom WaitsWatchhouse (formerly Mandolin Orange)W...
Transcribe →The Regulars: Rachel Cholst, Beyond Adobe & Teardrops and Rainbow Rodeo
Jan 200:14:22Tap to summarizeSummaryThis week at the Dive Bar Music Club, we meet one of the Regulars, the incredible Rachel Cholst, who’s here to take us on a deep dive into the colorful world of queer country and Americana. Get ready for some surprising insights and music recommendations, including jazz for non-historians.As we sip on our metaphorical cocktails and kick back, Rachel Cholst helps us explore the magic of live music venues and how they create a sense of community, especially for those of us who don’t fit the cis het white dude roots music scene mold. And if you're a fan of Lilith Fair 90s vibes, you're in for a treat, as we also chat about how the past has shaped the music we love today.Dive in to broad influences from peers to NPR with Rachel Cholst.LinksChapters00:00 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club03:12 Entering the Music World04:53 The Intersection of Music and Identity07:23 The Importance of Community Spaces in Live Music09:53 Exploring the Music Scene in Upper Manhattan13:17 Introduction to Dive Bar Music ClubTakeawaysVibrant, Inclusive Vibes: Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers of all kinds, where everyone can share their current obsessions and discover fresh new tunesCommunity & Live Venues Matter: We chat about why live music venues are more than just places to hear music. They create a sense of community for both fans and artists, and that’s what makes the music scene so special.Queer Country & Americana: We dive into genres like queer country and Americana, exploring how they reflect personal stories and cultural shifts, making for some pretty deep and powerful music.Witty Banter & Musical History: Expect fun conversations mixed with deep dives into music history. We’ll navigate how genres and identities blend together to shape today’s music scene.Recommended If You LikeDive Bar Music Club, Rachel Cholst, Americana music, queer country, 90s alt rock, indie music podcasts, emerging songwriters, underground music scenes, live music venues, music communities, music recommendations, music reviews, jazz influences, Southern rock, intersectionality in music, music blogging, music playlists, artist highlights, cultural music discussions, music nerd culture, Yahoo, Pandora, No Depression, Good Country, Two Cow Garage, Karen and the Sorrows, Rainbow Rodeo, Penny Jo's, Rockwood Music Hall, Lilith Fair, Bad Bunny, Alt Latino, Adobe and TeardropsTranscriptSpeaker A00:00:00.960 - 00:00:05.120Hey, everybody, this is Rachel Cholst, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.Speaker B00:00:05.760 - 00:00:52.390Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs.Around our table you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting, a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music projects than we can count.We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen.Speaker C00:00:52.790 - 00:00:54.550Okay, that last one's probably me.Speaker B00:00:54.710 - 00:01:01.950Sloane Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.Speaker C00:01:02.510 - 00:01:08.990Rachel Cholst, I am so excited to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you up to in the world of music these days?Speaker A00:01:09.710 - 00:01:34.600Hey, Sloane, thank you so much for having me. I'm really excited to just nerd out with all my Twitter ati bluesky ati people.Now you can find me editing Rainbow Rodeo, the only queer country site zine. And you'll also find my work in no Depression. I have a monthly column there, as well as the Nashville scene and good country from time to time.Speaker C00:01:35.080 - 00:01:54.230I'm so excited to have you be part of this. I have learned so much about music that I otherwise would not have known, and for me, the barrier was the country part of it.You know, I'm not really a country music fan and you've really opened my ears to some fantastic work over the years. So I'm really excited to learn more about what you're listening to these days with Die Bar Music Club.Speaker A00:01:54.870 - 00:02:18.070Thanks. I've actually been listening to a lot of jazz in my free time.I think 20 years of writing about Americana and country and roots rock has kind of made me really hate three chord songs. I'm just kidding.But I think, you know, I'm definitely excited to expand my own horizons because I know you've got a lot of people with really exciting tastes coming onto the podcast as well.Speaker C00:02:18.640 - 00:02:30.480That's the plan is that hopefully we all like different things, but we all have enough of an overlap to be able to turn people onto other things. I'm super into like early 1970s soul jazz. It's like comfort music for me.Speaker A00:02:31.200 - 00:02:40.800Yeah, totally.And you know, when I say queer country for Rainbow Rodeo, that's just because it's a nice alliteration, you know, it's mostly Americana, I think, is how we would describe it nowadays.Speaker C00:02:41.280 - 00:02:52.830Sure. And I think that's important to clarify for folks, because if you're like me and you're like, I don't listen to country music, I'm not sure.I've told the listeners of this particular podcast. I worked in pop country for 25 years. I've listened to plenty of country music in my life.Speaker A00:02:53.550 - 00:03:04.670Yeah. For pop country, I don't really listen to it as much in my free time either.But it is interesting to see, like, the sort of 90s sounds come back into fashion, for better or worse. Agreed there.Speaker C00:03:04.670 - 00:03:19.570Yeah, I think we'll probably end up chatting about that at some point in an upcoming podcast because that's come up in a couple of these different little bio conversations. So, Rachel Coelst, we've known each other digitally for a pretty long time, but how did you end up working in the world of music?Speaker A00:03:20.290 - 00:05:23.469I'm a millennial, kind of right there in the middle, born in 1988. So I was like in my tweens when the Internet became a thing.And so I was just kind of used to if I liked something, doing what I could to find everything about it. And as much as streaming has really been damaging to the music industry, I think it's been great for music listeners.I never would have found my way into altcountry in Americana if it wasn't for services like Yahoo. Radio and Pandora. Try to keep it really brief. I am like New York City kid.My family is like third generation in Ellis island, so there's no real particular roots in what you would consider like classical country music. They don't listen to it, but I just really fell in love with sort of Southern rock and twang, for whatever reason.And as I got older and my own politics continued to develop, I found myself gravitating towards this sort of intersection between punk and country and singer songwriting.So not necessarily so much like the Bloodshot record bands that are really in your face, but those bands that were kind of made famous on the revival tour or artists so like Tucal, Garage, Lucero, those kinds of people.And I noticed as I was going to more and more shows, as I was reading more and more blogs about those artists, they were almost universally featured straight white men. And I was almost always the only woman there at these shows who wasn't there with her boyfriend.So I wanted to figure out who those other people were. This was also 2011, so kind of like as the ideas of intersectionality and like Occupy Wall street were all entering the mainstream.So I decided to just start my own blog, Adobe and Teardrops, that tried to highlight artists of marginalized identities.So queer artists, bipoc artists as we would call use the term now, and all people who are working somewhere within the root space and also just artists who I liked. So that also included like 2Cal Garage and Abigail Lucas and people like that.Speaker C00:05:24.270 - 00:05:44.760And this is where I first discovered your work and I kind of gravitated into this f...
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